UPDATE: A 36-year-old man from Salisbury, Massachusetts, has been arrested for making a series of alarming bomb threats online. Authorities confirm that Scott Merchant was taken into custody on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, following an extensive investigation led by the FBI Boston and local police.
The threats were made via a social media platform, prompting urgent action from law enforcement. At approximately 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, a regional task force, equipped to handle such dangerous situations, assisted in the arrest, which occurred without incident. Merchant has been charged with making a bomb threat and threatening to commit murder.
During his arraignment at the Newburyport District Court, Merchant pleaded not guilty to all charges. He has been ordered held without bail and is set for a dangerousness hearing on Thursday. Additionally, the court has mandated a psychological evaluation to assess his competence to stand trial.
The investigation began earlier that day when FBI agents notified Salisbury police of ongoing threats involving explosives and firearms. Local police stated there is currently no threat to the public, reassuring residents as they continue to probe the matter further.
Merchant’s defense attorney has yet to respond to requests for comment. As this story develops, local authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Police and community members remain on alert as they navigate the implications of these serious allegations. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available.